We spoke with Jade Docherty, 27-year-old captain and central-midfielder at Headstone Manor Ladies, who were still chasing honours on three fronts when the season was ended early.
SK: Can you tell us a little of your footballing history and any personal high points?
JD: I Started playing for a club called Princes Park when I was 12, I then went on to play for Luton Town Under-15s before moving into the Ladies Reserves and then the First Team. In 2014 I joined Headstone Manor.
I have had a few personal high points, such as playing at the Luton Town stadium. I’ll also never forget being the underdogs when Headstone Manor beat Tottenham Development – who were two divisions above us – away from home 2-0. However, my main personal high point has to be captaining Headstone Manor in 2018/19 and winning 2-1 in the Greater London Women’s Football League Trophy final. Lifting that trophy at the end of the game with the Headstone girls was incredible and something I will never forget and a trophy we hope to keep hold of.
SK: How had your team’s season been going before lockdown?
JD: Headstone were doing very well before lockdown. We were in the semi-final of the County Cup, the Quarter Final of the Greater London Women’s Football League Cup and were looking to finish second in the League [Division 2 North].
SK: How did you do against any local rivals in 2019-20?
JD: We have two local rivals and beat both this season. We won 5-2 against Larkspur Rovers and 6-1 against Wealdstone in league fixtures.
SK: What were your best and worst moments of the campaign?
JD: Our best moments of the campaign before the season came to a halt were firstly; getting through to the County Cup semi-final and continuing the defence of our trophy and secondly, being in a position to challenge for promotion this season. Our worst moment of the campaign was losing early on in the season to Enfield [Town Reserves] 2-1 in a tight game.
SK: Any rising star, club veteran or stand-out personality we should hear about?
JD: At the beginning of the season we signed a couple of new players and a couple who joined midway through the season too. All these players have fitted in brilliantly and added extra strength and quality to our team.
SK: How are you trying to keep fit and fill the void in football?
I have been running, cycling and completed some online fitness sessions too.
We want to hear from players of all ages and leagues, so send your own answers and pics to [email protected]
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